How to Get Rid of Acne Scars

Acne scars can be frustrating, stubborn, and difficult to treat without the right strategy. The good news: modern dermatology offers highly effective solutions, from simple at-home care to advanced clinical procedures.

This Medex Diagnostic & Treatment Center guide breaks down what actually works, based on scar type, skin type, and severity, so you can choose the fastest, safest path to clear skin.

The best way to get rid of acne scars depends on the type of scar:

• Dark marks (PIH): sunscreen + retinoids + chemical peels
• Indented scars: microneedling, laser resurfacing, fillers
• Raised scars: steroid injections or laser therapy

For best results, most patients need a combination of treatments guided by a dermatologist.

• Acne scars form when inflammation damages skin tissue and collagen
• There are 3 main types: atrophic (indented), hypertrophic (raised), and discoloration
• Top treatments include: retinoids, chemical peels, microneedling, laser resurfacing, and fillers
• Sunscreen is essential to prevent scars from worsening
• For moderate to severe scarring, professional dermatology treatments deliver the fastest results

What Causes Acne Scars?

Acne scars develop when breakouts penetrate deep into the skin and damage underlying tissue.

Common causes:

• Picking or squeezing pimples
• Severe or cystic acne
• Delayed or improper treatment
• Genetic predisposition

When your body tries to repair the damage, it produces either too little or too much collagen, leading to different scar types.

Types of Acne Scars (Why Treatment Depends on This)

1. Atrophic (Indented Scars)

• Ice pick scars (deep, narrow)
• Boxcar scars (wide, defined edges)
• Rolling scars (wave-like texture)

Caused by collagen loss

2. Hypertrophic / Keloid (Raised Scars)

Caused by excess collagen production

3. Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (Dark Spots)

Not true scars, but discoloration that can linger for months

At-Home Treatments (Best for Mild Scars)

If your acne scars are mild or mostly discoloration, start here:

Daily Essentials

• Broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen (prevents darkening)
• Retinoids (Vitamin A) – boost collagen + skin turnover
• Alpha hydroxy acids (AHA) – exfoliate dead skin
• Azelaic acid – reduces redness and pigmentation

Pro Tip: Consistency matters more than product cost. Expect results in 8–12 weeks.

Professional Treatments That Actually Work

For deeper or long-standing acne scars, medical treatments deliver faster and more dramatic results.

1. Microneedling (Collagen Induction Therapy)

• Stimulates natural collagen production
• Best for rolling and boxcar scars
• Minimal downtime

2. Laser Resurfacing

• Removes damaged skin layers
• Smooths texture and tone
• Ideal for moderate to severe scars

Higher risk for darker skin tones, must be done by experienced providers

3. Chemical Peels

• Exfoliate top layers of skin
• Improve discoloration + mild scarring
• Multiple sessions needed

4. Dermal Fillers

• Fill depressed scars instantly
• Temporary (6–18 months)
• Great for quick cosmetic improvement

5. Steroid Injections

• Flatten raised scars
• Often used for keloids or hypertrophic scars

6. Subcision (Advanced Technique)

• Breaks fibrous bands under scars
• Often combined with fillers or microneedling

7. Surgical Options (Severe Cases)

• Punch excision (removing individual scars)
• Skin grafting

Real-Life Scenario

Case: 34-year-old female, NYC
Issue: Deep rolling scars from cystic acne
Treatment Plan:

• 3 sessions microneedling
• 1 laser resurfacing treatment
• Medical-grade skincare

Result:
✔ 60–70% improvement in 4 months
✔ Smoother skin texture
✔ Reduced makeup dependency

When to See a Doctor (And Which One)

See a doctor if:

• Scars are deep, widespread, or worsening
• Over-the-counter products don’t work after 3 months
• You have raised (keloid) scars
• Acne is still active

Best specialists:

• Dermatologist → primary expert for acne scars
• Cosmetic dermatologist / laser specialist → advanced procedures
• Medical spa (under MD supervision) → for mild treatments

At Medex Diagnostic & Treatment Center (NYC), patients receive personalized treatment plans combining medical and aesthetic dermatology for faster, safer results.

Mistakes That Make Acne Scars Worse

• Skipping sunscreen
• Picking or squeezing acne
• Using harsh scrubs
• Delaying treatment
• DIY chemical treatments

How Long Does It Take to See Results?

FAQ

1. Can acne scars go away naturally?

Mild discoloration may fade over time, but deep acne scars usually require treatment.

2. What is the fastest way to get rid of acne scars?

Laser resurfacing or fillers provide the fastest visible improvement.

3. Are acne scars permanent?

Some are permanent, but modern treatments can significantly reduce or nearly eliminate them.

4. Does microneedling really work for acne scars?

Yes—microneedling is one of the most effective treatments for collagen rebuilding and skin smoothing.

5. Which treatment is best for deep acne scars?

A combination of subcision + laser + microneedling typically delivers the best results.